What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
extirpate
Example
The government is working to extirpate invasive species from the national park. [extirpate: verb]
Example
He was able to extirpate his smoking habit after years of trying. [extirpate: verb]
eradicate
Example
The government is working to eradicate malaria from the country. [eradicate: verb]
Example
The company was able to eradicate the issue by implementing new policies. [eradicate: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Eradicate is more commonly used than extirpate in everyday language.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between extirpate and eradicate?
Both extirpate and eradicate are formal words that are typically used in academic or technical writing.
